Make: Springfield Armory

Model: 1884 Trapdoor Rifle

Serial Number: 451990

Year of Manufacture: 1889, C&R

Caliber: .45-70 Government

Action Type: Single Shot, Trapdoor Action, Fed by Single Shot

Markings: The right side of the barrel near the breech is marked “V / P / Eagle Head / P.” The breechblock is marked “U.S. / MODEL / 1884.” The top of the buttplate is marked “U.S.” The top of the receiver is marked with the serial number “451990.”

Barrel Length: 22”

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a blade set in a base that doubles as a bayonet lug. The rear sight is a Buffington sight adjustable for windage and elevation, marked to 2,000 yards. The rear sight base is intact and secure.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a one-piece walnut military stock with a straight grip and metal buttplate. The LOP measures 13 3/8” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The stock shows handling marks throughout with several scattered nicks, small gouges, and scratches. There is a crack around the top of the wrist. The stock rates in about Good overall condition.

Magazine Quantity & Condition: N/A – Single shot

Type of Finish: Blued with case-colored breechblock

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is mostly bright, the rifling is defined. There is light visible erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 7/10.

Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 50% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows general thinning and finish loss, with areas of patina developing along the barrel and receiver. There is light surface oxidation and some freckling, particularly on the buttplate and exposed metal parts. The breechblock retains strong case color. The screw heads are lightly tooled with serviceable slots. The pins are unmarred. The markings are mostly sharp and legible. Overall, this rifle rates in about Good condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None

Our Assessment: The Springfield Model 1884 Trapdoor Rifle was the final iteration of the long-serving Trapdoor series used by the U.S. military from the late 1860s through the end of the 19th century. Featuring the improved Buffington rear sight and robust .45-70 Government chambering, these rifles saw service in the Indian Wars and into the Spanish-American War era as training and secondary arms.

This particular example, serial number 451990, dates to circa 1889 and retains solid mechanical function, clear markings, and a bright bore with strong rifling. Though showing wear consistent with age and service, it presents as a very honest, well-preserved military rifle.

For collectors of U.S. military arms, especially 19th-century martial rifles, this Springfield Trapdoor offers historical value, shooting potential, and an iconic design that bridges the black powder and early smokeless eras. A solid addition to any historical arms collection.